🌎 Moving to Canada from the U.S.

 

Welcome to Your Canadian Next Chapter

 

Thinking about making Canada your new home — whether for a fresh start, a career move, or a safe and stable environment for your family?
Relocating across borders can feel complex, but with the right information and guidance, the path becomes clear.

This page is your starting point. Below, we break down the different ways Americans can come to Canada, from short-term stays to permanent residency, including the official government links you’ll need along the way.

 

1. Immigration vs. Relocation — What’s the Difference?

• Immigration: The formal process of moving to Canada to live permanently.

• Relocation: Moving for work, study, or family reasons — sometimes temporary, sometimes a stepping stone to permanent immigration.

• Residency: Your legal status while in Canada, which may be:

  • Temporary Residency (work permits, study permits, visitor visas)

  • Permanent Residency (PR) (live, work, and study anywhere in Canada; pathway to citizenship)

 

2. Temporary Residency Options

Visitor Visa / eTA

• U.S. citizens don’t need a visa for visits under 6 months.

• You may need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if flying in.

• No work or study rights.

Study Permit

• Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is required.

• Must show proof of tuition + living expenses (~CAD $20,000/year minimum).

• Can work up to 20 hours/week off-campus.

• Many students transition to PR via Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Work Permit

• Two main types:

  • Employer-specific permit (tied to one employer).

  • Open permit (spouses of workers/students, or special programs).

• Most require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from the employer unless exempt.

 

3. Permanent Residency Pathways

Permanent residency allows you to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely, with most of the same rights as citizens. Popular pathways include:

• Express Entry (Skilled Workers)

  • Based on age, education, work experience, and language skills.

  • Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores determine eligibility.

  • Minimum settlement funds required: approx. CAD $13,757 for a single person (2025 figure).

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

  • Provinces like Ontario or British Columbia select candidates with skills in demand locally.

• Family Sponsorship

  • Canadian citizens or permanent residents can sponsor a spouse, partner, or dependent children.

👉 More info: Permanent Residence — Government of Canada

Express Entry

• Canada’s fastest immigration system for skilled workers.

• Applicants are scored on age, education, work experience, language ability.

• Requires proof of settlement funds (~CAD $14,690 for one person, CAD $27,297 for a family of four).

• Current processing: 6–12 months.

• Government site → Express Entry

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

• Each province nominates candidates for local workforce needs.

• Example: Ontario focuses on tech workers, BC on healthcare and trades.

• Nomination adds 600 points to your Express Entry profile — nearly guarantees PR.

Family Sponsorship

• Canadian citizens and PR holders can sponsor spouses, partners, and dependent children.

• Income requirements: Must prove ability to financially support dependents.

If you’re not yet ready to commit to permanent immigration, these options allow you to live, work, or study in Canada for a set period:

• Work Permit – For employees with a Canadian job offer or U.S. professionals under trade agreements (e.g., CUSMA/NAFTA).

• Study Permit – For students admitted to a designated Canadian institution.

• Visitor Visa – For extended visits, family stays, or preliminary relocation.

👉 More info: Temporary Residence — Government of Canada

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4. Income & Financial Requirements

To immigrate to Canada, proof of settlement funds is often required.
(Figures updated for 2025)

• 1 person — CAD $13,757

• 2 people — CAD $17,127

• 3 people — CAD $21,055

• 4 people — CAD $25,564
  (Add approx. $4,500 per additional family member)

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👉 Reference: Government of Canada — Settlement Funds

 

5. Steps to Get Started

1. Define Your Goal – Temporary move, permanent residency, or citizenship?

2. Check Eligibility – Use the official Come to Canada Tool.

3. Gather Documents – Passport, education records, proof of funds, language test results.

4. Submit Application – Online through the IRCC portal.

5. Relocate with Confidence – Work with professionals who can help with housing, relocation logistics, and settlement support.

 

6. Citizenship

After 3 years of permanent residency (within a 5-year period), you may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.
👉 More info: Become a Canadian Citizen

 

Ready to Make the Move?

Relocating to Canada is more than paperwork — it’s about building a future filled with opportunity, stability, and community.

Whether you’re exploring temporary options or planning a permanent move, I can connect you with trusted legal, housing, and settlement resources to make your transition smooth and stress-free.

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📩 Let’s Talk About Your Move — Contact Me Here